A decadent dish of tender steak, juicy shrimp, and creamy Alfredo sauce with a Cajun kick, perfect for date nights or indulgent dinners.
Ingredients
For the Proteins
- 1 lb ribeye or sirloin steak, cut into bite-sized pieces
- 1/2 lb large shrimp, peeled and deveined
- 1 1/2 tbsp Cajun seasoning (divided)
For the Alfredo Sauce
- 2 tbsp butter
- 3-4 cloves garlic, minced
- 1 cup heavy cream
- 1 cup grated Parmesan cheese
- Salt and pepper, to taste
For the Pasta
- 12 oz fettuccine or linguine pasta
- Fresh parsley, chopped, for garnish
Instructions
Cook the Pasta
- Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the fettuccine or linguine according to package instructions until al dente.
- Drain and set aside.
Season the Proteins
- In a medium bowl, toss steak pieces with 1/2 tbsp Cajun seasoning.
- In another bowl, season shrimp with 1/2 tbsp Cajun seasoning.
Cook the Steak
- Heat 1 tbsp oil in a large skillet over medium-high heat.
- Add steak and sear for 2-3 minutes on each side until browned and cooked to your desired doneness.
- Remove steak from the skillet and set aside.
Cook the Shrimp
- In the same skillet, add more oil if needed.
- Cook shrimp for 2-3 minutes, flipping once, until pink and opaque.
- Remove shrimp and set aside with the steak.
Make the Alfredo Sauce
- Melt 2 tbsp butter in the skillet over medium heat.
- Add minced garlic and sauté for about 1 minute until fragrant.
- Pour in heavy cream, bringing it to a gentle simmer.
- Stir in Parmesan cheese and the remaining Cajun seasoning, stirring until smooth and thickened (2-3 minutes).
- Season with salt and pepper to taste.
Combine Everything
- Add the cooked pasta to the Alfredo sauce, tossing to coat.
- Gently stir in the steak and shrimp until combined and heated through.
Serve
- Garnish with fresh parsley and an extra sprinkle of Parmesan cheese if desired.
- Serve hot and enjoy!
Tips for Perfect Results
- Steak Doneness: Use a meat thermometer to ensure accuracy. Medium-rare steak reaches 135°F (57°C).
- Fresh Parmesan: Always use freshly grated Parmesan for the best texture and flavor.
- Adjust the Heat: Add extra Cajun seasoning or a pinch of cayenne if you love a spicier dish.
FAQs
Can I use chicken instead of steak?
Yes! Boneless chicken breasts or thighs work wonderfully as a substitute for steak.
Can I make this ahead of time?
This dish is best served fresh, but you can prep the proteins and sauce separately, reheating them together just before serving.
What side dishes pair well with this?
Garlic bread, a simple green salad, or roasted vegetables like asparagus or broccoli complement this dish beautifully.
Can I use a different pasta?
Absolutely! Penne, rigatoni, or even spaghetti are great alternatives.
How do I store leftovers?
Store in an airtight container in the refrigerator for up to 3 days. Reheat gently on the stovetop or in the microwave, adding a splash of cream to revive the sauce.
Conclusion
This Cajun Shrimp and Steak Alfredo is a restaurant-quality dish made right in your own kitchen. With its bold flavors and creamy textures, it’s bound to impress everyone at the table. Perfect for weeknight indulgence or special occasions, this dish is sure to be a crowd-ple